How to keep pig farms warm in continuous low temperature weather?

Compared with other pigs, piglets have lower tolerance to low temperature. For piglets, the commonly used heating facilities at present include padding, fire heating, infrared insulation lamp, insulation board, far infrared heating incubator and so on.

Cushion is a traditional heat preservation method, which is suitable for pigs with local blood. Mats include straw mats, wooden boards, artificial imitation leather, etc. This method is economical and easy to operate, and has a good warm-keeping effect, but it is easy to get wet and be bitten by pigs. It should be replaced in time to keep the fence dry and hygienic. Fire heating methods include hot air exchange, hot water exchange and anthracite furnace. Attention should be paid to prevent fire and carbon monoxide poisoning. At present, infrared insulation lamps are widely used. Hanging on the protective frame where piglets lie or in the insulation room to keep them warm, and the hanging height of infrared insulation lamp can be adjusted at any time according to the required temperature of piglets. The method has the advantages of simple equipment, good heat preservation effect and the function of preventing and treating dermatoses. The invention has the advantages of convenient use, flexible temperature regulation and accurate temperature control, and is suitable for large pig farms. The temperature of the incubator can be adjusted according to the age of piglets, which is convenient and flexible.

Various insulation measures have their own advantages and disadvantages, among which infrared insulation lamp, insulation board and far-infrared heating insulation box have better insulation effect (Figure 32), but the cost is high and electricity is needed. In actual production, several insulation methods can be used at the same time, such as spreading grass on the ground when using electric heating equipment. No matter which way you keep warm, you should pay attention to the humidity and ventilation in the house.

Fig. 32 Lamp-heated piglet incubator

(Source: Wang Jinyong)

(Wang Jinyong)